Trail ride to benefit Children’s Wish Foundation

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By Andy Barrand

Hillsdale.net - Hillsdale, MI

By Andy Barrand

Posted Dec. 31, 2012 at 11:00 AM

By Andy Barrand

Posted Dec. 31, 2012 at 11:00 AM

Hillsdale, Mich.

andy.barrand@hillsdale.net

HANOVER — With a fresh dusting of snow on the ground, Kris Runyon of Hanover is looking forward to this year’s New Year's Day Trail Ride at R Windy Acres. Runyon and her husband Gordy own the ranch just over the Hillsdale-Jackson County line in Hanover. Gordy, a horse trainer, started the ride seven years ago on New Year's Day with six people taking part. The year after that he met Kris and she began helping him plan the event. She said it has become bigger and bigger each year. Last year the ride drew around 60 people. The event has become more of a social gathering for people who love horses. “If the weather’s bad we will have people leave their horses at home and just come for each other's company,” Kris said. People have begun to come from all around east central Michigan to the event. Last year a couple living on Drummond Island came. Donations from this year’s ride will benefit the Children’s Wish Foundation International, with all money staying in the local district. Kris said after taking donations year after year for different projects they wanted to do something this year to help someone else. The event starts around 11 a.m., with riders set to leave the ranch around noon led by Gordy. Riders will have the opportunity to enjoy the scenic areas around Hanover as they ride down country roads and through farm fields. Kris said the local farmers have begun to expect the riders on New Year’s Day. Every year Kris prepares barbeque sandwiches and chili for visitors to enjoy. Those attending are urged to bring a passing dish. A campfire will be set up outside. Kris said her daughters, Nicole Wyers and Kara Rowe, help out a lot with the event. Raffle tickets will be available during the event with a wide variety of prizes to be given away from local businesses and items Kris has purchased throughout the year.

Kris said she had some great prizes donated from Tractor Supply this year. Other people have also stepped up to donate items for the event. R Windy Acres is located at 11967 Hanover Road, Hanover. Those wishing to donate to the event can do so by sending checks to Kris or Gordy Runyon, 11967 Hanover Road, Hanover, MI, 49241. For more information visit their website at www.rwindyacres.webs.com.